‘Appalling parking’ at Shoreham Beach as record numbers flock to the seafront

Councillor Joss Loader said she had never known the beach to be so busy on a weekday in the 25 years she has lived there.

Record numbers of people flocked to the seafront yesterday on what was the hottest day of the year so far.

But ‘appalling parking’ was making it difficult for residents who live on the beach, she said.

“Vehicles were queuing for at least 45 minutes yesterday evening to get off the Beach,” said Ms Loader.

“The car parks were full and vehicles were parked on double and single yellow lines, across people’s driveways, on grass verges and were also double parked.

“Cllr Kevin Boram and I have been in more or less daily touch with Adur District Council’s parking management team on sunny days during Lockdown.

“We’ve this morning received confirmation that they’re stepping up patrols on the Beach today.

“Wardens are doing their best but these are unprecedented times and we’ve seen record numbers of people flocking to the Beach.

“The council has no powers to stop people coming down here - and it’s good to see so many families and children enjoying the sunshine.

“But the appalling parking is making life extremely difficult for our residents.

“Visitors should walk or cycle to the Beach if at all possible - and please take all litter home at the end of the day if the bins are overflowing.”

West Sussex County Councillor Kevin Boram said: “I can fully understand why many people want to visit the beach at this particular time.

“However, cars must be parked safely and considerately.

“Residents and businesses based on the beach, or other beach visitors, should not be inconvenienced or put at risk by others.

“It is also important that the emergency services have appropriate access.

“As a result additional patrols by parking enforcement officers are being undertaken to ensure parking restrictions and the Highway Code are complied with.

“This includes the approach road to Widewater car park.”

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